Samsung is relying heavily on Google for Gemini’s AI smarts, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s entirely ceding control over its AI future.

Since the release of the Galaxy S24 series back in early 2024, the tech giant has been investing in its own suite of Galaxy AI features. This includes the likes of Live Translate for calls and messages, One UI 8’s Now Briefs, Audio Eraser, Generative Edit, and more.

An image drawn by Galaxy AI displayed on the screen of a Samsung Fold phone

Samsung’s Galaxy AI features have traditionally been free-to-use. Initially, the South Korean tech giant indicated that said features would only be “provided for free until the end of 2025.” That stance hasn’t changed since, though Samsung hasn’t really publicly spoken about it either, leaving us uncertain about the future and what was going on behind closed doors.

Now, however, we finally have some clarity. It looks like Samsung is prioritizing the best interests of users by keeping certain core Galaxy AI features free indefinitely.

Paywall speculation put to rest

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 sitting against a rock

While hints about this strategy first emerged last month via unofficial channels, we now have direct confirmation from Samsung itself. In our pre-briefing for the upcoming foldables, Samsung told Android Police that all Galaxy AI features that ‘are on your phone by default’ will never be charged for.

Illustration of a Galaxy AI chip hovering above a glowing platform with a large 'OFF' switch

This puts an end to a lot of paywall speculation, all while raising new questions. Will upcoming Galaxy AI features come with a price tag? Could we see a tiered approach like Google does with Gemini’s AI Pro and Ultra subscriptions? At least we know what Galaxy AI features are truly considered default. These include:

  • Live Translate
  • Note Assist in Samsung Notes
  • Zoom Nightography
  • Audio Eraser
  • Browsing Assist
  • Generative Wallpapers, and more

Elsewhere, most of Google’s Gemini-powered features remain free for now on Samsung devices. Advanced features, too, are free for the next six months for early Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 buyers.


  • Render of the Galaxy Z Fold 7 in blue against a white background.

    Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7

    RAM

    12GB

    Storage

    256GB

    Battery

    4,400mAh

    Operating System

    One UI 8

    Weight

    215g

    IP Rating

    IP48

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the thinnest and lightest in the series to date, integrating a powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy processor for enhanced AI capabilities and a 200MP pro-grade camera. Built for enhanced durability with an Armor FlexHinge and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, the device features a wider 6.5-inch cover screen and unfolds into an expansive 8.0-inch main display for immersive viewing and productivity.



    $2000 at Samsung


  • Two Galaxy Z Flip 7 models shown in a render against a white background.

    Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7

    The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 is a compact, pocket-sized AI phone featuring the largest-ever 4.1-inch, edge-to-edge FlexWindow and the slimmest design in the series yet. It packs a flagship-level 50MP camera and the largest battery ever in a Galaxy Z Flip, delivering powerful performance and enhanced AI functionality directly from the cover screen.



    $900 at Samsung